Lakes near Le Vaudioux are a prominent feature of the Jura department in France, a region known for its natural lakes. Le Vaudioux is situated to provide access to several notable lakes, offering diverse natural landscapes. The area's geography includes glacial lakes and mountain lakes, contributing to its appeal for outdoor activities. Visitors can explore a variety of aquatic environments within a short distance of the commune.
Last updated: July 7, 2026
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Lake
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Highlight • Waterfall
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more lakes around Le Vaudioux.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
🌿 Lake Narlay: Essential Information Location: Frasnois municipality, in the Lakes Region (Jura). Altitude: 748 m. Surface area: 41 ha. Depth: Up to 40 m, making it the deepest lake in the Jura. Origin: Glacial lake, likely formed by a rockfall. Environment: Meadows, forests, peat bogs, Natura 2000 and Ramsar sites. (Copilot)
0
0
Lac d'Ilay, also called Lac de la Motte, is a lake in the Jura department of France, about 14 km south of Champagnole in Franche-Comté. It lies at an altitude of 774 m in the municipalities of Le Frasnois and La Chaux-du-Dombief and covers an area of approximately 0.7 km². The lake is 1.9 km long, has a maximum width of 400 m, and has a small island (Île de la Motte). Its greatest depth is 32 m.
5
0
Lac de Narlay is a lake in the Jura department of France, about 10 km south of Champagnole in Franche-Comté. It lies at an altitude of 748 m in the municipality of Le Frasnois and covers an area of approximately 0.4 km². The lake is 950 m long and 625 m wide. Its maximum depth is 40 m.
6
0
Lacs de Maclu are two adjacent lakes in the western part of the French Jura, in the Jura department of Franche-Comté. They are located at an elevation of 779 m in a depression in the High Jura, in the region of the Five Lakes near Le Frasnois, about 12 km south of Champagnole. The Petit Maclu, located to the northeast, has an area of 5 hectares, a length of about 500 m, and a maximum width of about 120 m. Its greatest depth is 11 m. It lies entirely within the municipal territory of Le Frasnois.
6
0
Easy, shaded path, perfect for cooling off in hot weather.
0
0
The tour of the lakes is not of much interest, mainly being wide paths, without much relief, and with no view worthy of the name, including on the lakes (which we see very little, except on the eastern part, which is a shame). The western part is even difficult (we follow the road for 2km...). In short, a walk to forget, except perhaps for a running outing, or a detour via the Eagle peak.
0
1
A magnificent hike from the parking lot of the first lake via the Pic de l'Aigle and then the Belvederes overlooking the lakes, a magnificent site
1
0
The Serpentine, (first tributary of the Ain river whose source is located a little higher) forms a small lake near the ruins of a mill. It is from a cornice that this beautiful natural waterfall 15 meters high comes to life when the water level is sufficient.
1
0
The Jura region, accessible from Le Vaudioux, boasts several popular lakes. Among them, Lake Narlay is highly regarded, offering a charming path around its perimeter and permitting swimming. The Three Lakes Viewpoint provides a unique panorama of three distinct lakes, showcasing their characteristic whitish rim. Additionally, Petit Maclu Lake, part of a string of lakes in a Natura 2000 area, is appreciated for its rich biodiversity.
Yes, several lakes in the region are great for families. Lac de Chalain, the largest natural lake in the Jura, is particularly family-friendly with sandy beaches, canoeing, and pedal boating. Petit Maclu Lake and Lake Ilay are also noted as family-friendly highlights, offering easy, shaded paths perfect for walks.
The lakes around Le Vaudioux are known for several unique natural features. The Three Lakes Viewpoint reveals a distinctive whitish rim around the lakes, a result of a chemical phenomenon involving chalk, depth, and heat. Petit Maclu Lake, situated in a Natura 2000 area, is rich in wetlands, featuring water lilies, reeds, and sedges, providing an exceptional habitat for various animal species. You can also find glacial and mountain lakes, contributing to diverse aquatic environments.
The lakes in the Jura region offer a variety of water sports. Lac de Chalain is ideal for swimming, canoeing, and pedal boating. Lac de Vouglans, with its emerald green waters, provides extensive opportunities for various water sports and relaxation. Swimming is also permitted at Lake Narlay and Lac de l'Abbaye, which has a small beach.
Yes, many lakes feature walking paths. A charming path circles Lake Narlay through forests and meadows. Lac de Saint-Point offers a picturesque setting for combining walking and swimming. While the tour around Lake Ilay is generally easy, some parts follow the road. For more extensive hiking options, you can explore various routes in the region, including those found in the Running Trails around Le Vaudioux guide.
The best time to visit the Jura lakes largely depends on your preferred activities. For swimming and water sports, the warmer months from late spring to early autumn (May to September) are ideal. During this period, lakes like Lac de Chalain and Lac de l'Abbaye are particularly inviting. For walking and cycling, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with fewer crowds.
Absolutely. Lac de Bonlieu is often described as a romantic spot, perfect for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty with its serene atmosphere and picturesque surroundings. Lac des Rousses, situated at a higher altitude, also offers a peaceful wilderness experience surrounded by fir trees, ideal for quiet contemplation.
Yes, the region features beautiful waterfalls. The Moulin du Saut Waterfall is a notable highlight. Here, the Serpentine river forms a small lake before cascading 15 meters high, creating an amazing natural spectacle, especially when the water level is sufficient.
Visitors frequently appreciate the stunning natural beauty and the diverse range of activities available. The unique geological features, such as the whitish rim of the lakes seen from the Three Lakes Viewpoint, are often highlighted. The opportunity for swimming in clear waters, walking through forests, and enjoying peaceful, serene environments like those at Lac de Bonlieu are also highly valued.
Yes, the area around Le Vaudioux offers several cycling routes that pass by or around the lakes. For instance, there's a cycling route that loops around Lac de Bonlieu and Petit Maclu Lake. You can find more detailed cycling options and routes in the Cycling around Le Vaudioux guide, which includes routes of varying difficulty.
Being in a Natura 2000 area, such as Petit Maclu Lake, signifies that these wetlands are recognized for their exceptional ecological value. They provide critical habitats for many animal species and are rich in specific flora like water lilies, reeds, and sedges. This designation ensures the protection and conservation of these valuable natural environments.
Several lakes in the region are notable for their unique water colors. Lac de Chalain is famous for its beautiful turquoise waters, a characteristic of its glacial origin. Lac de Vouglans is easily recognizable by its striking emerald green waters, offering a stunning visual contrast against the surrounding landscape.


Still not found your perfect lake around Le Vaudioux? Check out the guides of these regions to see even more beautiful places.